Problems loading XP

  • Thread starter Thread starter ferg
  • Start date Start date
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ferg

G'Day List,
I have loaded WinXP Pro many many times on different boxes. Now I am seeing
the following problem.
Trying to wipe and reload a HD.
Boots to CD ROM and goes through set up.
I delete the existing partition.
Select to install XP on the unpartitioned space.
It goes throug the format process and then displays: "Setup was unable to
format the partition. The disk may be damaged. Make sure the disk is
switched on and properly connected."

I have even changed the HD and still get the same error.

Any ideas? Thanks
 
Hi ferg;

Since you've tried switching hard drives...

I've had some "Strange" things occur with XP setup that shouldn't.

1. Remove all other IDE/SATA/SCSI devices. Does it still complain that the
hard drive is damaged when it's on it's own? If not, let it copy all files
for setup, when it restarts, plug everything back in.

2. IDE / SATA / SCSI Cable. Try switching cables. Sometimes they may
become damaged.

3. Is this a SATA/SCSI drive? (i.e. are you loading device drivers for this
device for Windows to detect it?) Of course make sure these are the CORRECT
drivers for WinXP obtained from the manufactorer's website (Thus providing
you with up-to-date drivers)

4. Here's a MS site speaking of possible SCSI hard drive corrections
http://www.microsoft.com/resources/...s/2000/server/reskit/en-us/w2000Msgs/2516.asp

5. Make sure all jumpers are configured correctly. (Master/Slave etc.
Some drives have 'multiple' selections for Master/Slave to correspond to
limits on the hard drive, ensure you've selected the correct jumper position
to fit your drive)

6. Finally, if all else fails, Load "Fail Safe Defaults" or "Optimized
Defaults" in your BIOS. There may be some stray setting that has gone wrong.

Let us know fixes the problem!
 
Matt,
Thanks for the help.

Last night I bought and installed a new drive with the new cable and the
same problem occured.

Intel MoBo D865GBF with onboard NIC, sound, Video.
No SCSI or SATA.
The only attachments are the CDROM, Floppy Drive and the Maxtor Ultra
ATA/133 80GB 7200 RPM Drive.
1. Remove all other IDE/SATA/SCSI devices. Does it still complain that the
hard drive is damaged when it's on it's own? If not, let it copy all files
for setup, when it restarts, plug everything back in...................
Click to expand...
I today I removed the floppy cable, changed the CDROM cable, unplugged the
Network cable.............STILL DID NOT WORK
2. IDE / SATA / SCSI Cable. Try switching cables. Sometimes they may
become damaged...................STILL DID NOT WORK
Click to expand...

Changed the HD jumper from Cable Select to Master DS. Started
over......STILL DID NOT WORK

I am going to try with the maxtor CD.

Thanks
 
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